As part of efforts to prepare Liberians for the Maritime Sector, the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) has awarded scholarships to four young Liberians to pursue undergraduate studies at the Regional Maritime University in Accra Ghana.

The four students, three males and one female, are studying Marine Engineering, Nautical Science and Electrical and Electronics Engineering for four (4) years in the all-costs paid scholarship. The students include Bobby B. Brown (Marine Engineering), Christian D. Forkay (Nautical Science), Matilda Koffa (Electrical and Electronics Engineering) and Winston T. Sallie (Nautical Science).

According to the Director of Training at LiMA, Mr. James A. A. Morris, the scholarship was awarded after two months of thorough screening exercise conducted by LiMA Scholarship Committee under the supervision of the Department of Training and Development.

Mr. Morris said the scholarship opportunity was advertised in three local newspapers and two radio stations; application letters with supporting documents were received; background checks were done on shortlisted applicants with scores of West African Examination Council (WAEC) Divisions One and Two. Those shortlisted were interviewed and successful applicants were invited to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in accordance with the Liberia Maritime Authority’s Training and Procedural Manual.

A summary of the process showed that a total of 136 candidates which comprised 27 females and 129 males submitted applications but only thirty (30) – three females and twenty seven (27) males, of the total number of applicants were shortlisted and the best four were awarded the scholarship.

Under the terms and conditions of the MOU signed between the recipients and the Authority, LiMA will underwrite the cost of all fees to cover tuition, boarding,